This is your chance to learn about everything you need to know about the people helping you with your dog. Not all trainers are created equally, so this is your opportunity to check the trainer and make sure you are comfortable with all they have to offer. Transparency is key to the success of any training program. Talk with your Trainer -Different training programs? -Philosophy? -Equipment? -Price? -Qualifications? Expect the meeting to have a cost, possibly with a promotional discount.

Private Lessons are conducted one-on-one with your family being the only clients. In-Home or In Public Lessons conducted in your home, neighborhood, or other places of interest where you are struggling with your dog's behavior. In Homes are a great option for working professionals who have a hard time being able to committ to certain dates or times. The greatest benefit is having the ability to work through specific behavioral issues at the location they happen, in those specific circumstances. Expect these lessons to be more costly than visiting an on-site training facility, as the nature of the convenience implies an increased cost. On-Site Facility Lessons conducted at your local private training facility. This is a great way to start in a more "sterile environment" in order to engrain success into the dog. Depending on the situation, it could be very valuable to practice your issues in a controlled environment. Often times these lessons can be inexpensive, with the challenge being: applying the training at home, without the supervision of the trainer.

Group Lessons are the best way to receive an abundance of knowledge at an incredible price, albeit shared with a number of other individuals. Often times you will recieve printed literature related to your lessons, and this can be quite useful for keeping you on track for your homework. Class Size The size of your class should matter to you. Find out what the maximum amount of dogs allowed per class. Once you surpass 10 families, it sometimes becomes difficult for instructors to devote enough time for an individual with a specific problem. Area Size This could be the most important factor. Having adaquate space to keep your dog at a safe distance from other dogs. A small space with the wrong dog can make a 5 dog class feel like a warzone. Problem Dogs Fixing a problem behavior is difficult when your dog wont stop barking at every other dog in class. Likewise, the other dogs in class will have a significantly more difficult time absorbing the information given during class. Ask your trainer if reactive dogs are required to take any private lessons before they can attend group classes.

Lack of Available Time Not having available time in your day could be the reason you're experiencing a hard time with your dog in the first place. It's very convenient to let someone else fix your dog's behavior and create new habits. The program ideally would be centered around your schedule, and custom tailored to your situation. Problem Too Difficult Benefit from an expert's previous mistakes, not yours. Dog training is an art form. A dance, a conversation. Find an expert who speaks the language fluently, and let them translate and teach you so you can do so independantly. Dog's Absence Whether it's a vacation, home remodel, a new baby, or you're recovering from an injury. What better time to get a few new skills then when you are otherwise unable to care for your pet. Sometimes training is the sole reason, sometimes it's the added benefit of what would have been a boring boarding experience. Their are two main types of Board and Train which we will discuss in the following FAQ.

Their are two different types of Board and Train: In Home and In Kennel. Both have their pros and cons. In Home B&T is where the dogs live in the trainers home as part of the family. In Kennel training is often conducted with the dog living in a boarding kennel situation. With any Board and Train program, do your research and find out how many dogs they allow and also how much time your dog will be working. A lot of programs are run to bring as many dogs in as possible. Many facilities run 40-50 dogs for 4-5 trainers. If each trainer has 10 dogs to work and does just one private lesson that day then during an 8 hour shift that leaves 42 minutes in a 24 hour period that each dog is getting individual attention. While B&T is the most costly option most In Home options with limited spots are right on par cost wise with the big In Kennel facilities.